Name: Irresistibly Moist Cherry Almond Coffee Cake for Cozy Mornings
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (can substitute with gluten-free flour); 1 cup turbinado sugar (regular granulated sugar works as a substitute); 2 teaspoons baking powder (essential for a light and airy cake); 0.5 teaspoon salt (consider using sea salt or kosher salt); 0.5 cup butter (replace with margarine or plant-based butter for dairy-free options); 0.75 cup buttermilk (whole milk or 2% milk can be an alternative); 2 large eggs (no direct substitute mentioned for vegans); 1 cup cherries (thawed frozen or canned) (drain well if using canned); 1 teaspoon almond extract (substitute with vanilla extract if preferred); 0.5 cup sliced almonds (sprinkle on top for added crunch); 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (light dusting before serving)

A sweet aroma wafts through my kitchen as I reach for a slice of warm, moist Cherry Almond Coffee Cake. It’s a simple yet elegant treat that perfectly blends the tartness of cherries with the nutty essence of almonds. What I love about this cake is how effortlessly it transforms an ordinary morning or casual gathering into something memorable. With easy prep and the flexibility to use frozen or canned cherries, it’s a crowd-pleaser that fits right into any cook’s repertoire. Whether you’re pairing it with your morning brew or serving it after dinner, this delightful dessert never disappoints. Ready to indulge in this comforting cake?

Why is Cherry Almond Coffee Cake a Must-Try?

Versatile and Friendly: This recipe invites you to play with ingredients; swap out cherries for cranberries or even toss in some nuts for added texture!

Easy to Prepare: It requires minimal effort and basic baking skills, making it perfect for novice bakers and seasoned chefs alike.

Delightful Aroma: The heavenly scent of almonds and cherries baking creates an irresistible atmosphere in your kitchen, perfect for cozy mornings.

Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Whether it’s a brunch or a casual get-together, this cake is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

Pairs Perfectly: Enjoy it warm alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful morning experience. You can also check out my recipe for Homemade Pancakes Elevates your breakfast table!

Cherry Almond Coffee Cake Ingredients

For the Batter
• All-purpose flour – Provides the cake’s structure; can substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
• Turbinado sugar – Adds sweetness and texture; regular granulated sugar works perfectly as a substitute.
• Baking powder – Acts as a leavening agent; essential for a light and airy cake texture.
• Salt – Enhances overall flavor; consider using sea salt or kosher salt for a twist.
• Butter – Contributes moisture and richness; replace with margarine or plant-based butter for dairy-free options.
• Buttermilk – Ensures tenderness and moisture; whole milk or 2% milk can be used as an alternative.
• Eggs – Help bind the ingredients and provide structure; no direct substitute is mentioned for vegans.
• Cherries (thawed frozen or canned) – The star flavor component; feel free to use fresh cherries, but drain well if using canned.
• Almond extract – Enhances the almond flavor profile; substitute with vanilla extract if preferred.

For the Topping
• Sliced almonds – Sprinkle on top for an added crunch and visual appeal, complementing the Cherry Almond Coffee Cake beautifully.
• Powdered sugar – A light dusting before serving adds a sweetness that elevates the cake’s presentation.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cherry Almond Coffee Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper. This ensures that the Cherry Almond Coffee Cake releases easily once baked. As the oven heats, gather all your ingredients and equipment to streamline the process, making it more enjoyable.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together ½ cup of butter and 1 cup of turbinado sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3-5 minutes. Your mixer should create a pale, airy texture. This step is crucial as it helps to aerate the batter, leading to a light and moist cake.

Step 3: Add Eggs One by One
Add 2 eggs one at a time to the creamed mixture, mixing well after each addition. This ensures that each egg is fully incorporated, which helps bind the ingredients together effectively. The batter should become smooth and homogenous, reflecting a shine as it blends well with the butter and sugar.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Whisking aerates the flour and ensures even distribution of the baking powder and salt. This creates a light, fluffy texture in your Cherry Almond Coffee Cake, complementing the moistness from the cherries.

Step 5: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with ¾ cup of buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender crumb. You’ll want a slightly lumpy batter without any visible flour bits; this is the sweet spot for a perfect cake texture.

Step 6: Fold in Cherries and Almond Extract
Gently fold in 1 cup of cherries (thawed frozen or drained canned) and 1 teaspoon of almond extract. Use a rubber spatula to incorporate these flavors into the batter evenly, taking care not to break the cherries. Your Cherry Almond Coffee Cake batter now beautifully showcases the cherries, adding a pop of color and sweetness.

Step 7: Transfer to Cake Pan
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth out the surface with a spatula, ensuring an even top for baking. This helps the cake rise uniformly, allowing for an appealing golden appearance. Tap the pan lightly on the counter to remove any air bubbles that may have formed during mixing.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 50-55 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. The top should be golden brown and spring back when lightly pressed, indicating a perfectly baked Cherry Almond Coffee Cake.

Step 9: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This cooling step allows the cake to set before transferring it to a wire rack. Carefully run a knife around the edges to loosen it if necessary, then invert it onto the rack to cool completely, preserving its beautiful shape and texture.

What to Serve with Cherry Almond Coffee Cake?

The perfect accompaniment transforms a slice of cake into a delightful experience, creating cherished memories around your table.

Rich Coffee: The bold flavor of coffee contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the cake, enhancing the cherry and almond tones.
Fresh Berries: A side of mixed berries adds a refreshing tartness, balancing the rich flavors of the cake and elevating the dish’s presentation.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream brings a luxurious texture and creaminess, perfectly complementing the moist coffee cake.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla adds a cool, creamy element, making each bite of cake even more indulgent and satisfying.
Tea Selection: Pairing with a fragrant tea, like chamomile or Earl Grey, creates a soothing experience that pairs wonderfully with the cake’s nutty notes.
Honey Drizzle: A drizzle of honey on top of each slice enhances sweetness and provides a beautiful sheen, making your presentation even more appealing.
Lemonade or Iced Tea: These refreshing beverages offer a citrusy brightness that cuts through the richness of the cake, making it a delightful afternoon treat.
Chocolate Ganache: A light drizzle of chocolate ganache introduces a decadent twist, marrying beautifully with the cherry and almond flavors for chocolate lovers.

Expert Tips for Cherry Almond Coffee Cake

Be Gentle with the Batter: Avoid overmixing after adding flour; this can lead to a dense Cherry Almond Coffee Cake instead of the desired light and fluffy texture.
Proper Cherry Prep: Make sure to thaw and drain any frozen or canned cherries well to prevent excess moisture from making your cake soggy.
Monitor Baking Time: Every oven is different. Start checking your cake around the 50-minute mark to ensure you don’t overbake, as this could dry it out.
Cool Before Slicing: Letting the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes helps it set properly before transferring it to a wire rack, ensuring perfect slices every time.
Enhance Visual Appeal: Sprinkle sliced almonds or a dusting of powdered sugar before serving to make your Cherry Almond Coffee Cake even more irresistible.

Cherry Almond Coffee Cake Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists that elevate your Cherry Almond Coffee Cake experience with each slice!

Cranberry Twist: Swap cherries for cranberries for a tart, festive variation. The bright color and zingy flavor will add a refreshing change.
Citrus Infusion: Replace almond extract with orange or lemon extract for a zesty brightness. The citrus aroma will fill your kitchen, inviting everyone to indulge in a slice.
Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for extra crunch. This twist will provide a satisfying contrast to the moist cake, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Chocolate Lovers: Toss in some chocolate chips alongside the cherries. The chocolate will melt slightly during baking, creating pockets of gooey goodness that pair beautifully with the almond flavor.
Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute buttermilk with coconut milk or a plant-based milk for a vegan rendition. The moistness remains intact, allowing the cake to hold its charm while being dairy-free.
Sugar Substitute: Use coconut sugar in place of turbinado sugar for a deeper, caramel-like flavor profile. This will give your cake a unique sweetness that guests will love.
Spiced Up: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for an aromatic twist. The warmth from the spices can perfectly complement the sweetness of the cherries.
Almond Joy: For an indulgent choice, toss in some shredded coconut along with the cherries. This treat will evoke the flavors of a tropical getaway right from your kitchen.

As you create your masterpiece, you might want to serve it with a refreshing beverage like Cherry Limeade Refreshing for a delightful pairing. And if you’re in the mood for something extra indulgent, a slice of Oreo Cheesecake Indulge on the side could be the cherry on top!

Make Ahead Options

These Cherry Almond Coffee Cakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. To do this, simply mix all the ingredients up to the folding stage of the cherries and almond extract, then cover the bowl tightly to prevent drying out. The flavors will meld beautifully! When you’re ready to bake, just fold in the cherries, transfer the batter to the prepared cake pan, and bake as directed. If you’d like to make it even further in advance, you can bake the cake and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Just reheat slices in the microwave for a warm coffee cake experience that’s just as delicious as the day it was baked!

Storage Tips for Cherry Almond Coffee Cake

Room Temperature: Store the cooled Cherry Almond Coffee Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its moistness.

Fridge: If you want to enjoy your cake for longer, refrigerate it for up to 1 week. Just ensure it’s in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze slices of the cake in a single layer, wrapped in plastic wrap and then in foil, for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

Reheating: To revive the cake, microwave a slice for about 10-15 seconds or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until heated through and fresh-tasting.

Cherry Almond Coffee Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of cherries should I use for the Cherry Almond Coffee Cake?
I recommend using fresh cherries for the best flavor and texture, but you can also use thawed frozen cherries or canned cherries (just make sure to drain them well). If using fresh, look for cherries that are firm and bright red without any dark spots.

How should I store leftover Cherry Almond Coffee Cake?
Store your cooled Cherry Almond Coffee Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. Just ensure it’s sealed tight to keep it moist and delicious!

Can I freeze the Cherry Almond Coffee Cake? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Cherry Almond Coffee Cake, slice it into individual pieces and wrap each slice in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. This double wrap will help prevent freezer burn. You can store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.

What if my cake comes out dense? What did I do wrong?
Dense cakes can often be a result of overmixing the batter after adding the flour. Be gentle when combining wet and dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. Also, ensure that your baking powder is fresh; expired leavening agents can lead to dense results as well!

Is this recipe suitable for people with nut allergies?
This Cherry Almond Coffee Cake contains almond extract and can include sliced almonds; therefore, it is not suitable for those with nut allergies. You can substitute it with vanilla extract and simply omit the nuts to make it allergy-friendly. Just ensure that any alternative ingredients are also checked for allergens.

How long will my Cherry Almond Coffee Cake stay fresh in the refrigerator?
When stored properly, your Cherry Almond Coffee Cake can last up to a week in the refrigerator. To maintain its moistness, always use an airtight container, and consider wrapping it in plastic wrap for an extra layer of protection from moisture loss.